Winter

Winter is a phenomenal time to get outdoors to explore. There are fewer people crowding trails, it’s quieter, the views are spectacular, and frankly, snow makes everything more magical. But if you don’t have the right gear, getting out to hike in snowy or icy conditions can seem scary. But it doesn’t have to! All you need are the right tools and gear to keep your feet firmly planted on the ground (literally). And that means hiking spikes. But if you’re wondering what kind of traction devices you need for winter hiking, we’ll break down the three main types, right here, right now.

When it comes to staying warm during outdoor winter activities, protecting those digits is of the upmost importance. So we did some digging and found a whole slew of cozy, warm, sustainable gloves and mittens that are perfect for winter (and also happen to be vegan). So cover those fragile extremities and get out there and enjoy the season!

It’s officially ski and snowboard season! Which means it’s time to dust off the ol’ snow pants and hit the slopes (or the sledding hill…). But if yours have seen better days and are ready to be retired, take a look at these rad, sustainable snow pants that promise to keep you warm, dry, and lookin’ fly on the lift, on a toboggan, or in the backcountry, while simultaneously doing less damage to the planet. You know, the one you ski on… So check out these sustainable snow pants and get out there and enjoy the season already!

Winter is coming. And yeah, that oft-quoted phrase carries extra negative connotations this year (thanks, COVID). But the one thing it’s always mean: it’s gonna get cold. Even down here in Texas where, I kid you not, the high today is 44º. (Don’t laugh! That’s cold for those of us who can’t run far enough south to escape cold weather!) And though winter means more people will likely be hiding indoors this season, that’s certainly not necessary. In fact, for quiet, secluded trails and lots of vacancies at campgrounds, winter is a great time to get outside and beat the crowds. But the key to keeping the cold at bay during outdoor activities this season: our outdoor guide to layering.